Southern Chinese border region vexed by alien species

South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region becomes the number one victim of invasive alien species in China, according to the regional environmental protection department.

The region has 13 of the 16 invasive alien species recently announced by the State Environmental Protection Administration, three more than last year.

There are more than 400 alien species in China, including half of the 100 dangerous alien species listed by the World Conservation Union (IUCN).

A recent investigation showed Guangxi has 84 invasive external species, 16 animals and 68 of plants.

Outlining major reasons for the quick spread of alien species, a regional environmentalist said Guangxi borders Vietnam and the Beibu Bay. Moreover, the region is endowed with a mild climate which is conducive to the growth of plants.

Experts called on the government to take effective measures to curb rampant growth of alien species and heighten the public awareness of biosafety.

Source: Xinhua